WORLD famous Wingates Band is taking on the cream of European talent at a prestigious competition in France this summer.

The band was just one of a handful of British bands invited to appear at the French National Brass Band Championships in June, in the Loire Valley town of Amboise.

Musicians and organisers now have the task of raising funds for the first overseas trip in 10 years.

The band will warm up for its first overseas trip for 10 years with its next concert at Chorley Town Hall on Sunday February 22.

The performance will begin at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from band manager David Kaye at Throstle House, Moss Lea, Bolton, BL1 6PL. They £7 and £6 for concessions.